New missiles meant for defensive purposes only

By Chen Heying Source:Global Times Published: 2015-9-4 0:08:01

The DF-21D anti-ship ballistic missile (right), is among the highlights of the parade. Photo: Zhang Siyang/GT

China unveiled at the parade on Thursday the latest-developed weaponry, including missiles dubbed the "carrier killer" and "Guam killer" missiles, an demonstration which has resulted from China's growing confidence and the obligations of a "responsible world power," according to experts.

At the parade to commemorate the 70th anniversary of the end of WWII and victory in the War of Resistance against Japanese Aggression, 84 percent of the 500 types of equipment on show were displayed in public for the first time, reported the Xinhua News Agency.

A host of latest armaments ranging from intercontinental ballistic missiles to medium-long range bombers were rolled out in the military parade.

Among them, the DF-21D anti-ship ballistic missile, the DF-26 intermediate-range ballistic missile, and the DF-5B intercontinental ballistic missile were the highlights of the parade, Shao Yongling, a senior colonel from the People's Liberation Army Second Artillery Command College, told the Global Times.

The DF-21D, anti-aircraft carrier ballistic missile, is reportedly capable of destroying an aircraft carrier with one hit.

Dubbed the "carrier killer," it is believed to be targeted against US aircraft carriers to counter US naval domination in the western Pacific, and to obstruct the US from operating in the Sea of Japan and from coming to the defense of Taiwan, reported Japanese media.

Shao said the DF-26 intermediate range ballistic missile, dubbed the "Guam killer" in reference to US naval bases in Guam in the western Pacific, can strike the bases.

Experts said the demonstration, more candid than ever before in displaying the advanced and sensitive weapons, indicated military transparency and the country's increasing confidence in its military strength.

"The display can dismiss speculations and decrease strategic misjudgment by other countries," Shao said, adding that the parade is also a deterrent to potential rivals.